Setting work boundaries can increase happiness

Creating good work boundaries helps protect you and increases your happiness at work. However, most employees have difficulty defining what a boundary is and how to set one.

A boundary can be a physical or emotional parameter that you set in order to help you put limits in place. If you have ever heard of someone consistently complaining about their job, their workload or constant stress levels are high, they likely are not setting good boundaries and are instead allowing others to control their happiness and well-being.

In today’s work environment, setting boundaries is not only good for your health, it’s crucial if you want a happy and productive career. Working in a 24/7 culture where work can literally follow you everywhere, setting boundaries can be confusing especially if your role requires interacting with teams across the globe. The lack of time boundaries over a period of time can be exhausting and lead to resentment.

The line between leaving work and going home is often blurred, and what constitutes one person’s work habits may not be yours. Boundaries help define you and clear the path for better workplace relationships.

Setting boundaries is not always easy, especially if you are afraid of saying “no.” Many employees are afraid of saying no to unrealistic expectations for fear of losing their job or being passed over for a promotion. The flip-side of saying yes to everything allows others to take advantage of your good intentions.

The good news is that it’s never too late to start setting boundaries and it begins with identifying your needs. First, acknowledge the areas that are causing you the most stress. Is it too many projects at one time? Is your health being affected by the amount of time you are spending at work? Are you afraid of losing your job by limiting your workload?

Your answers will reveal the boundaries that are missing. If you are afraid of losing your job, start by taking steps to protect yourself by asking for a meeting with your boss.

Get clarification of your job description and identify possible areas where you are taking more responsibility than needed.

If your workload is overwhelming, get a clear understanding from your boss on what his or her priorities are and discuss ranking them in order. Spending too much time at work affects your health and without protecting it, you are setting yourself up to fail. Boundaries help you maintain a healthy lifestyle by setting emotional and physical limits.

Learning when to say yes and how to say no will help you take control of your work life.